DSS: We’ve arrested members of syndicate diverting palliatives in Nasarawa

The Department of State Services (DSS) says its operatives have arrested some suspects behind the diversion of palliatives meant for “vulnerable” citizens in Nasarawa state.

The service said the suspects were arrested in various parts of the state for selling the palliatives, noting that the items have been recovered while an investigation is ongoing in other parts of the country.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, Peter Afunanya, DSS spokesperson, said the service carried out an investigation after receiving reports from some state governments.

“Consequently, the Service undertook investigations in that regard and has recovered some of the items as well as apprehended the suspects,” the statement reads.

Afunanya said the service intercepted a “suspected criminal syndicate” in Nasarawa for allegedly diverting and selling palliatives meant for the vulnerable residents in the state.

He said the suspects arrested were officials of Nasarawa State Emergency Management Agency (NASEMA) and their accomplices in the marketplaces, including Modern Market Lafia, where the items were being resold.

The DSS spokesperson said the suspects have been handed over to the appropriate body for disciplinary action.

Following the removal of the petrol subsidy, the federal and state governments have rolled out palliatives to cushion the hardship on Nigerians.

The measures include providing financial support and food items to low-income households and increasing the availability of public transportation for workers.

However, there have been concerns about the possible diversion of the palliatives away from the target population.